Integrated wall system

Abstract

An integrated wall panel for building construction comprising a framing structure secured to a reinforced concrete stemwall. The framing structure comprises two vertical end studs and the stemwall comprises a mass of concrete surrounding reinforcing means and extending between lower portions of the studs. Additional framing members including horizontal framing members and intermediate studs are secured to the end studs and the stemwall. A mass of concrete surrounds the reinforcing means and fills the stemwall form, making an integral panel. Preferably, the concrete extends into a channel in the end studs to secure the stemwall to the end studs. The integrated wall system may be configured to receive floor joists or may have additional reinforcing rods extending perpendicularly from the panel to support a poured concrete floor. A method for producing the integrated panels comprises providing framing structures with end studs and secured reinforcing means and depositing concrete between the end studs and around the reinforcing means. Multiple panels may be formed at once by employing a jig having a series of parallel horizontal forming members secured to a platform. Each forming member is configured to receive the end studs of the framing structure so that three sides of the perimeter of the stemwall to be formed are defined. Buildings constructed with panels of this invention generally comprise a plurality of support piers. Each panel spans the distance between a pair of piers so that each end of the panel is supported.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.